Ancient Wisdom

My children complain about my rules, just as I complained about the rules of my parents. I was sure that all of that dated advice couldnít have relevance in contemporary culture. Times had changed. Certainly the rules should change also. As I grew, I rebelled against many of the standards I was taught. Much later, as an adult, there were times that I wished I had listened to that parental wisdom. Instead, I had to learn through experience and then deal with the consequences of my actions.

Iím studying the book of Proverbs in the bible. It is called a wisdom book. Much of this God inspired wisdom was written by Solomon, who is described as the wisest man who ever lived. It was compiled in 700 BC. This is ancient wisdom.

Proverbs 1:8-33 begins with Solomon telling his sons to listen to their fatherís wisdom and their motherís teaching. Commentators write that this teaching is translated as the ďLaw.Ē Good Jewish parents of that time were expected to teach children Godís Law from the time they were born until they left home. It seems that their children were just as inclined to rebel as I was.

Solomon goes on to advise his sons that following the teachings Ė Godís word - will bring them honor, success and admiration. He warns about peer-pressure. They should stay away from anyone who would invite them into unlawful activity such as schemes to attain money that they did not earn. If they were to be pulled into those schemes, they would eventually experience loss instead of gain.

Solomon says that wisdom is readily available and it even calls out to them. He warns them against closing their ears to the voice of wisdom. He knows that they will regret the decision to reject Godís wisdom. Living by oneís own rules instead of Godís rules brings unwanted consequences.

Today, when knowledge of Godís teaching is so readily available Ė we have the bible - we still close our ears and our minds to the voice of wisdom. We discount a particular teaching because it is old-school or because it is difficult to follow and we prefer to take an easier or more popular path. As Solomon warned his sons; after we have gone our own way and made our mistakes, we will remember that godly teaching and realize its value. The seeds we have planted eventually sprout weeds that we must deal with. (Galatians 6:7) How much easier it would be to believe Godís Word and to consider the warnings. God promises success. His promises as well as his Laws are true.